Member News

LOUDONVILLE, NY – Today, Career Jam™ hosted a massive regional workforce development
event at Siena University, bringing together 400 students from 15 school groups spanning 9
counties.

The event featured a high-energy environment where students engaged directly with local
professionals from 44 organizations. From a virtual CDL simulator and drone demonstrations to
medical simulations, the hands-on Exploration Floor allowed students to see, touch, and
experience career opportunities of the Capital Region.

“Bringing students from across nine counties to Siena University represents a major milestone
for our regional workforce,” said Aarika Van Amburgh, Owner & Chief Community Engagement
Officer of Career Jam™. “Career Jam™ Launch is designed to bridge the gap between
classroom learning and real-world application, and today’s success is a testament to the
incredible commitment of our local businesses and educators. We are building a sustainable
talent pipeline that starts with the student-first mission we’ve championed since day one.”

Siena University President Chuck Seifert, Ph.D., shared: "Siena is proud to host Career Jam
because it reflects who we are at our core: a university committed to strengthening the entire
community. We are committed to meeting high school students where they are and guiding
them to their next level. By welcoming them to explore career pathways, meet industry
professionals, and imagine their futures, we’re investing in workforce development in a very real
and personal way. Helping young people discover their passions and see a clear path forward is
part of Siena's mission, and Career Jam brings that mission to life.”

Industry Leaders on the Impact of Career Jam™ Launch:

GlobalFoundries: Christine McLear, Sr. Lead Workforce Development, remarked: “At
GlobalFoundries, we’re committed to strengthening the semiconductor talent pipeline by
engaging students early and showing them what’s possible in high‑tech manufacturing.
Our partnership with Career Jam brings this mission to life by giving students hands-on
experiences that spark curiosity and build confidence with real-world technologies.
These events help students see that a career in semiconductors is not only accessible
but can begin right here in our community—whether they pursue higher education or
step directly into the workforce.”

NYSERDA: Adele Ferranti, NYSERDA’s Director of Workforce Development and
Training said, “The transition to a clean energy economy is accelerating the need for
skilled labor to fill good-paying jobs. NYSERDA is proud to partner with Career Jam to
connect the next generation with industry leaders and continue our commitment to
building a local workforce to meet growing labor demands.” 
Pioneer: “Strong communities don’t happen by accident, they’re built when local businesses
invest in the next generation,” said Pioneer President and CEO Thomas Amell. “Pioneer is
proud to continue supporting Career Jam in connecting students with real career opportunities
that strengthen the long-term vitality of the Capital Region.”

STS Steel: “In steel fabrication, learning by doing isn’t just a method—it’s how careers are built,”
shared Geoffrey Frazier, President of STS Steel. “Hands-on experience gives students the
real-world skills our industry depends on.”
The event was made possible by the Workforce Collaborative and lead sponsors including
GlobalFoundries, Pioneer, NYSERDA, and STS Steel.

About Career Jam™
Career Jam™ is a workforce development organization on a mission to provide unique and
immersive experiences that inspire students, equip educators, support employers, and impact
communities. We believe in a "Students First!" approach, empowering every young person,
regardless of background or ability, to imagine their future.
By aligning student aptitudes with real-world workforce demands, Career Jam™ serves as a
vital bridge between the classroom and the local economy. Our work is rooted in the core values
of Humility, Service, Innovation, and Fun, ensuring that every interaction leaves people and
communities better than we found them. Since its founding, Career Jam™ has empowered
over 25,000 students in the Capital Region to imagine their future and launch meaningful
careers right in their own backyards. For more information, visit www.career-jam.com.

About Siena University:
Founded in 1937, Siena offers more than 40 majors, 80-plus minors and certificates, and
prestigious joint-degree programs in liberal arts, science and business. A wide range of student
activities join with immersive service learning, research opportunities, extensive study abroad
options and an NCAA Division I athletic program in providing more than 3,600 undergraduate
and graduate students the opportunity to prepare for a lifetime of making a difference.